Effect of Trampoline Training on Motor Proficiency and Body Mass Index in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Background: It is generally agreed that regular physical exercise promotes several benefits in people with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) (SOWA, 2012). Children with autism spectrum disorders present significant and widespread changes in motor performance (Fournier, 2010) and hence a weaker motor performance (Pan, 2009), problems in maintaining balance and in motion planning (Vernazza-Martin et al. 2005). The use of trampolines potentially improves balance and motor proficiency of children with learning disabilities (Giagazoglou, 2013).

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a twenty-weeks trampoline training (TT) program on motor proficiency and body mass index (BMI) for children with ASD. 

Methods: Seventeen children (5 girls and 12 boys, age 4-10) were assigned to either a supplemental trampoline training (TG) or control group (CG). Both groups continued to participate in their regular education curriculum.

The groups were evaluated in the beginning (baseline), after 10 weeks and in the end of program (after 20 weeks). BMI was evaluated by height and weight measurement and motor proficiency used the Bruininks–Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (2nd ed.), (BOT). Group results were compared using multivariate analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Results:  The TT program resulted in significant increases motor proficiency (p=.000): TG children evolved from a total BOT score of 21.33±17.682 (baseline) to 35.17±17.747 after 20 weeks, while control group evolved from a total BOT score of 28.27±10.001 to 30.27±7.55. No statistical differences were found on BMI.

Conclusions:  Trampoline training is an effective option to develop motor proficiency for children with ASD.